Translation guide
The Imjin War (1592–1598) was a major conflict in East Asia, primarily between Japan and the Joseon dynasty of Korea, with Ming China intervening. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to as 文禄・慶長の役 (Bunroku-Keichō no Eki), using the era names of the time. This guide helps learners refer to the war naturally in Japanese, depending on context and perspective.
To refer to the Imjin War in a neutral, academic, or general Japanese context.
The standard Japanese name for the war, combining the Bunroku (1592–1596) and Keichō (1596–1598) eras. Used in history textbooks and academic writing.
The Bunroku-Keichō War was a conflict in which Toyotomi Hideyoshi invaded Korea.
Refers specifically to the first invasion (1592–1596). Often used when discussing the early phase of the war.
文禄の役では、日本軍は漢城まで進撃しました。
During the Bunroku Campaign, the Japanese forces advanced as far as Hanseong (Seoul).
Refers specifically to the second invasion (1597–1598). Used when discussing the later phase.
慶長の役では、日本軍は苦戦を強いられました。
In the Keichō Campaign, the Japanese forces were forced into a hard fight.
To refer to the war using the Korean or Chinese name, or the English term, when speaking from a non-Japanese viewpoint or in international contexts.
The Korean name for the war, meaning 'Japanese disturbance of the Imjin year'. Used in Japanese when citing Korean sources or emphasizing the Korean perspective.
韓国では、この戦争を「壬辰倭乱」と呼びます。
In Korea, this war is called 'Imjin Waeran'.
The Chinese historical term, meaning 'Wanli Korean Campaign'. Rarely used in Japanese except in specialized historical contexts.
中国の史料では「万暦朝鮮の役」と記されています。
In Chinese historical records, it is written as the 'Wanli Korean Campaign'.
A direct transliteration of the English 'Imjin War'. Sometimes used in modern, international contexts, but not standard in Japanese historical discourse.
インムジン戦争は、東アジアの国際関係に大きな影響を与えました。
The Imjin War had a major impact on international relations in East Asia.
To mention the war briefly in conversation, often with an explanatory phrase.
A common descriptive phrase meaning 'Hideyoshi's invasion of Korea'. Natural in casual conversation and easy to understand.
秀吉の朝鮮出兵は、結局失敗に終わりました。
Hideyoshi's invasion of Korea ultimately ended in failure.
Short for 'Hideyoshi's invasion of Korea'. Context-dependent; may need clarification if the subject is not clear.
朝鮮出兵のとき、多くの武将が活躍しました。
During the invasion of Korea, many military commanders played active roles.
文禄・慶長の役 is the standard Japanese term and is neutral in tone. 壬辰倭乱 is the Korean term and may carry a stronger sense of the war as a Japanese invasion. Use the former in general Japanese contexts, and the latter only when specifically referencing the Korean perspective or sources.
Japanese historical periods are often referred to by era names. 文禄・慶長の役 is a typical example. When discussing other historical events, look for similar era-based names.